The Indiana Memorial Union is more than just a hotel. It’s the go-to spot on campus for food, movies, ATMs, books, entertainment events and even a haircut. When completed in 1932, it was the world’s largest student union. We’ve broken down several bustling floors to keep you from getting lost.
MEZZANINE
Sugar & Spice
Sugar & Spice pastry chef Michael Craig said it is the only store of its kind in the country. It offers organic coffee, cheeses, meats and pastries ranging from traditional chocolate chip cookies to chocolate pistachio cheesecake.
“We have our traditions, like the chocolate nomakes and special cake chewies,” Craig said. “We’re trying to reimagine and innovate what Sugar & Spice is a little bit, but also keep the classics so that we’re not drastically changing.” It also offers mail orders for people from as far away as California.
Back Alley Bowling
Back Alley Bowling offers more than what its title implies, operating a billiards and arcade room, Manager John Bower said. Although Back Alley attracts students for its cheap rates, Bower said since it doesn’t serve alcohol or food, it creates tough competition next to other businesses.
Rates for the general public are $2.50 for a bowling game, and black-light bowling is $2.75 for students and $3 for the general public. Rates for the billiards room for those without a student ID are $5.75 and $5.50 for students.
LOBBY / FIRST FLOOR
Dunn Meadow Cafe
Dunn Meadow Cafe is a healthy option for students. Formerly named Kiva, Dunn Meadow Cafe was reopened in February 2010, Retail Manager Holly Parient said.
The menu lists an array of fresh sandwiches, such as the Toasted Turkey Ciabatta, the Pesto Chicken Dagwood, a vegetarian Dagwood and various wraps and pitas. It also has a build-your-own-sandwich option and a salad bar.
Sycamore Corner Store
The Sycamore Corner Store is a convenient last-minute shop for hotel guests, especially since it’s located next to the main desk in the lobby. Meagan Need, a clerk at the front desk in the center lobby, said she occasionally goes there for a candy bar and milk, but the store is targeted toward guests.
The store offers souvenir baskets, magazines, chocolate and other snacks according to the IMU website.
FIRST FLOOR
Starbucks
If you’re several yards away from the IMU, you’ll probably see many pedestrians — especially students — carrying a Starbucks coffee.
While a Starbucks is located on Indiana Avenue, which is not far from the IMU, the Starbucks on the first floor is a popular spot for studying and catching up with friends. The large sitting area, also known as the IMU Gallery for its featured art, can sit dozens of patrons.
South Lounge
The South Lounge, a brief walk from the IMU Starbucks, is another frequented stop for students looking for a cozy place to study. Students can sink into the large leather couches or read at a table near the windows.
Whittenberger Auditorium
The Whittenberger Auditorium is known for its free weekly film series on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, which is organized by Union Board. Manager and Sales Assistant Sarah Cady said the Auditorium, which was named after the first president of the University’s first student union, John Whittenberger, can sit up to 400 people.
Alumni Hall
Alumni Hall, which is more formal than the Whittenberger Auditorium, is 5,000 square feet and the largest and most used meeting hall in the IMU, Event Manager and Sales Assistant Sarah Cady said. Whenever events in Alumni Hall exceed the room’s capacity, the Solarium, which is adjacent to the Hall, often helps with overflow.
